Thanks. Had a head tube crack welded recently and haven't seen other issues. Elastomers were replaced several years ago. I would be interested if any FS owners have used speed springs or something that might be a better long term option. She's a fun super light ride and hope to ride her for many more years.

You already repaired a crack? How did that go? Did you heat treat post weld? Not to assume you are un-educated, just see so many recommend shying away from repairing AL. I am curious to hear the process and how it holds up long term.

Had one for many years, found the rear a bit of a pogostick, but yuo learned to ride with it. Was brilliant in single track. Mine had cracks everywhere, all through the rear crown, loads of slop in the rear(too many years as a DH race bike) and when I finally saw the crack in the head tube, rode it no more.

Have a contact that knows a local welder who knows aluminum very well. Showed him the crack, what series of aluminum it is and that I wanted it fixed and didn't care about cosmetics. $35 later he fixed it and it seems to be holding up nicely. Tried to post a pic of the weld, but the site keeps rotating the image and I'm too lazy to figure it out.